Press Release

Webasto Presents Innovative Solution for Autonomous Driving

Stockdorf/Munich - September 10, 2019 – At this year’s IAA Webasto presents a world premiere for autonomous vehicles. The world market leader for roof systems introduces its Roof Sensor Module, a roof system with integrated sensors and related thermo and cleaning systems, at Europe's leading mobility trade fair in hall 8.0, booth D10.

New challenges due to autonomous vehicles The transition from classic to autonomous vehicles faces automobile manufacturers with new challenges. The ideal positioning of the sensors is decisive for the capture of the environment. The functionality of the sensors must also be ensured in all weather conditions. As the highest point of the vehicle, the car roof offers the optimum conditions.

The Roof Sensor Module With the world's broadest product portfolio of panorama and sunroofs, Webasto has the expertise to integrate sensor technology into the roof attractively. For the Roof Sensor Module, Webasto uses state-of-the-art 3D formable materials such as polycarbonate. This enables seamless integration of the components into the roof system and has a positive effect on aerodynamics and the vehicle architecture. To ensure the sensors functionality in all weather conditions and soiling, Webasto offers intelligent thermo management and various cleaning systems operated with water and air. Webasto is also able to implement transparent and openable roof systems with integrated sensors and high rigidity at the same time. Further features such as ambient lighting or switchable glazing can also be added in the future.

Cooperation with the pioneer in autonomous driving With many years of experience in industrialization and electronics as well as its thermo expertise, Webasto takes over the management of the mechatronic roof system and works closely with automotive and component manufacturers. In particular, the cooperation with Pony.ai, a global pioneer of autonomous mobility located in Silicon Valley, California and in China, is ground breaking. "With the Roof Sensor Module, we are strengthening our core business according to our dual strategy and are actively shaping the future of autonomous driving", explains Dr. Holger Engelmann, Chairman of the Management Board, Webasto SE. "Due to the strategic exchange with Pony.ai and the combination of our competencies, we can offer our customers a reliable and scalable solution", Engelmann continues. James Peng, cofounder and CEO of Pony.ai adds: "Mass-producing self-driving vehicles is no simple feat. It requires the entire automotive and technology ecosystems to come together. We are excited to partner with Webasto in the innovation and productization of roof sensor modules for autonomous vehicles."

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About Webasto

The Webasto Group is a global innovative systems partner to almost all automobile manufacturers and among the top 100 suppliers in this industry sector. The company’s product portfolio comprises a broad range of roof and heating systems for every type of vehicle and all drive types as well as battery systems and charging solutions. Moreover, Webasto has a strong position in the aftermarket providing dealers and end customers with customized solutions and services relating to thermo management and electromobility. In 2019 the company generated sales of around 3.7 billion euros and had almost 14,000 employees at more than 50 locations (with over 30 of these being manufacturing plants). The headquarters of the company, founded in 1901, is located in Stockdorf near Munich (Germany).